From being a wasteland at the margins of civilization-remote, unknown, dangerous-the beach is now seen as nature`s most potent anti-depressant, everyone`s favourite destination. Using a hugely enter-taining historical framework, this book charts the evolution of the seaside from ancient societies to the present day. A marvellous selection of images-impressionist paintings, lithographs, archive photos, advertising art-evokes the beach`s hypnotic appeal, while the text explores the evolution of leisure, the beach`s role in the history of sexuality, fashion and sport, and rise of the great resorts from Cap D'Antibes to Coney Island. Also included is an appendix of the world`s most beautiful, luxurious and unspoiled beaches. The Beach will be a pleasure to anr reader who loves to settle down on the sand with a fascinating book.
